what are the different ways to improve project management skills
Bala S DuvvuriProject Manager| ShellBangalore, Karnataka, India
I always think that though i am working as a project manager i may not get a chance to work in all aspects of the project management and may not get much experience.
So I am just thinking about what are the other ways to improve the project management skills than actual job.
Sergio Luis ConteHelping to create solutions for everyone| Worldwide based OrganizationsBuenos Aires, Argentina
The first thing to do is really understand what project management is and what a program/project manager is. To do that you can take the PMI or any other way to search. I say that because in many places what you do in your dayli work is not real project/program managerment. When you clarely understand the concept then you can imporve yourself by making a plan. And use all you think you can use for making your work better no matter others use it in your organization (obviously if your organization allows it). You can work in all aspect of the project/programa management. What matters is the attitude. Saving Changes...
Steven ZacharyDirector| Alberta Health ServicesCalgary, Alberta, Canada
I'd like to say, project managers are so taxed. In terms of resource capacity I've never met a good PM under 100% utilization. With that said, if you don't take the initiative to improve yourself know one will. The industry moves so fast these days, you can quickly get left behind. Great job staying on top of this.
My suggestion has always been the same, pretty simple. When a "body of knowledge" is created, what an organization will do is gather as many subject matter experts in the field to brainstorm leading edge concepts in the field and solutions to emerging problems. You don't have to reinvent the wheel, harness the collective knowledge of Sergio and so many others in the PMBOK and supplement it with industry and company specific knowledge. There is nothing like specific company knowledge which makes you indispensable to your organization.
Never stop learning. Saving Changes...
Gina AbudiPresident| Abudi Consulting LLCAmherst, Nh, United States
Besides training courses I would suggest attending conferences where you can share best practices and learn from others' experiences, reading articles and books on the topic, certainly through this forum and through volunteering at your local chapter. Consider also volunteering for other non-profits where you can assist in managing a variety of projects/events.
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1 reply by Steven Zachary
Dec 30, 2015 2:31 PM
Steven Zachary
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Excellent points Gina! This is why you are a president and I am a lowly consultant ;).
I would argue that, the fundamentals of training are necessary. But the conferences and volunteering are indispensable to long-term success. Great points!
Saving Changes...
Steven ZacharyDirector| Alberta Health ServicesCalgary, Alberta, Canada
Dec 30, 2015 2:24 PM
Replying to Gina Abudi
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Besides training courses I would suggest attending conferences where you can share best practices and learn from others' experiences, reading articles and books on the topic, certainly through this forum and through volunteering at your local chapter. Consider also volunteering for other non-profits where you can assist in managing a variety of projects/events.
Excellent points Gina! This is why you are a president and I am a lowly consultant ;).
I would argue that, the fundamentals of training are necessary. But the conferences and volunteering are indispensable to long-term success. Great points!
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1 reply by Gina Abudi
Dec 30, 2015 2:53 PM
Gina Abudi
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You are too funny Steven!
Saving Changes...
Gina AbudiPresident| Abudi Consulting LLCAmherst, Nh, United States
Dec 30, 2015 2:31 PM
Replying to Steven Zachary
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Excellent points Gina! This is why you are a president and I am a lowly consultant ;).
I would argue that, the fundamentals of training are necessary. But the conferences and volunteering are indispensable to long-term success. Great points!
I would say Conferences(virtual or otherwise), webinars... pmi.org, projectmanagement.com , if you happen to work on same type of projects year in year out using same methodology etc these resources may be very valuable.... Saving Changes...
Bala, Learning is one among the key aspects for growth, keep yourself up-to-date with current trends. Continue learning, implementing and keep sharing, exchanging your experience in forums like here.
You could also have a look at “Project Manager Competency Development” book if you have not gone through it, which features on 3 dimensions – Knowledge, Performance, & Personal of project manager. Have it alongside of PMBOK 5 for your reference and learning (section 1.7.1),
How have i gone this long without knowing this book exists. Your a lifesaver!
Saving Changes...
Steven ZacharyDirector| Alberta Health ServicesCalgary, Alberta, Canada
Dec 31, 2015 7:38 AM
Replying to Sandilyan Ramadoss
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Bala, Learning is one among the key aspects for growth, keep yourself up-to-date with current trends. Continue learning, implementing and keep sharing, exchanging your experience in forums like here.
You could also have a look at “Project Manager Competency Development” book if you have not gone through it, which features on 3 dimensions – Knowledge, Performance, & Personal of project manager. Have it alongside of PMBOK 5 for your reference and learning (section 1.7.1),
How have i gone this long without knowing this book exists. Your a lifesaver!
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1 reply by Sandilyan Ramadoss
Jan 02, 2016 1:17 AM
Sandilyan Ramadoss
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Thanks Steven.
Wish you all happy new year.
Saving Changes...
Julia CunninghamManager Project Management| BattelleRichland, Wa, United States
Volunteering is also another great way to expand your knowledge and practice of the art and science of project management. Many PMI chapters have lists of volunteer opportunities, and most non-profit organizations can always use a hand from an organized and competent project manager. Good luck. Saving Changes...
Andy KaufmanHost| People and Projects PodcastLake Zurich, Il, United States
I love your desire to grow, Bala! Good for you! That desire will fuel success for you.
As an author and speaker, I'm certainly a fan of books and training. However, I'll add that the greatest growth in my ability to lead and deliver usually came from watching it modeled and trying (and failing) myself.
If you buy that premise, make 2016 the year that you more strategically seek out some mentors. They don't have to be formal mentors--just people who you watch more intentionally. Perhaps you buy some lunches and ask them questions. Be curious about what they are doing and why. One could argue that everyday life is a training session if we watch for it being played out in front of us at every meeting, in each interaction.
As Julia and others have suggested, find a way to volunteer, even if it's a small initiative. I agree with Steven that it's difficult to find the time to do this. But I've learned important lessons even on relatively small projects.
Here's to a great year of learning for you and us all in 2016!
